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Media Center Ohio welcomes 16-year-olds as blood donors October 2009 The state of Ohio recently passed a bill to allow 16-year-olds to donate blood with parental permission. Signed into law by Ohio Governor Ted Strickland, the law took affect on October 6. The Red Cross is encouraging 16-year-old individuals to start a lifelong habit of donating blood. The previous minimum blood donation age was 17 years old. Approximately 20 percent of blood donations in Ohio come from education institutions, including high schools. It is estimated that approximately 10,000 more blood donations will be given each year due to the new law. Many committed donors began donating blood while they were in high school. As the donor base continues to age, it is important to educate a group of young donors about the importance of a safe and stable blood supply. If you are 16 years of age and would like to donate blood, simply log-on to givelife.org to find out more information. Before donating, 16-year-olds must review a few materials and have a parent or guardian sign a written consent form. This written consent form must be brought with the 16-year-old to the blood drive or donor center. Individuals who are 17 years old (16 with parental permission in some states), weigh at least 110 pounds and are in general good health may be eligible to donate blood. High school students and other donors younger than 19 years also have to meet certain height and weight requirements. Please bring your Red Cross blood donor card or other form of positive ID when you come to donate. Click below to access the student reading materials and parental consent form: http://www.indianaohioredcross.org/ContentPage.aspx?pageid=6&catid=28
09/09AP1080 |
Media contacts Central Ohio Rodney
J. Wilson Heather
Reichle Other Red Cross National |
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